Assessment and Treatment Approaches for the Patient With COPD

Abstract

Abstract As more adults reach their later years, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) becomes a highly complicating factor with regards to overall health. For the purpose of this article, “COPD” is used as an umbrella term that includes emphysema, bronchitis, and, at times, asthma. It is progressive in nature. The main symptoms of COPD are usually readily apparent to the skilled observer: shortness of breath, decreased capacity for physical activity, presence of a chronic obstructive cough, loss of appetite with possible weight loss, and increased fatigue (Connell & Richman, 2009). Not surprisingly, this short list of symptoms alone can create havoc for the speech-language pathologist, because COPD can cause a multitude of problems, including voice, communication, and swallowing disorders.